Veteran broadcaster John Stapleton has died at the age of 79, according to his agent Jackie Gill. Stapleton, who presented programmes including the BBC's Watchdog and GMTV's News Hour, died in hospital on Sunday morning.
Gill confirmed that Stapleton had Parkinson's disease, which was complicated by pneumonia. "His son Nick and daughter-in-law Lisa have been constantly at his side and John died peacefully in hospital this morning," she said.
Stapleton had revealed his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease in October 2024. The veteran broadcaster made the announcement public while maintaining his characteristic resilience about facing the progressive condition.
Living with Parkinson's disease
Speaking on ITV's Good Morning Britain after announcing his diagnosis, Stapleton maintained a philosophical outlook about his situation. "There's no point in being miserable… It won't ever change," he said.
"I mean, Parkinson's is here with me now for the rest of my life. Best I can do is try and control it and take the advice of all the experts," Stapleton added. His approach reflected the determined spirit that defined his decades-long broadcasting career.
Broadcasting career
Stapleton was known for his work on several high-profile television programmes. His career included presenting roles on the BBC's consumer affairs programme Watchdog and GMTV's News Hour, establishing him as a familiar face to British television audiences.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
